Community Programs

C.A.C. (Community Action Council)

We continue to support the C.A.C. by active participation in the group.

C.A.P.S. (Citizens Assisting Public Safety)

The department is looking for active volunteers to participate in the C.A.P.S. program. The department provides training for the participants who patrol our city on foot or bike. They are the “eyes and ears” for the department and can help us in making East Grand Rapids the safest city in Michigan. Many of the C.A.P.S. volunteers routinely express joy for the freedom and responsibly that we gave them to serve their neighbors.

If you’re interested in volunteering for C.A.P.S. contact Captain Chuck Lark at 616-949-7010.

Crossing Guards

The East Grand Rapids Public Safety Department employs 20 crossing guards. They provide a safe environment for students travelling to and from school.

If you are interested in participating in this program contact our crossing guard supervisor Jean Timmer at 616-949-7010.

T.E.A.M. (Teaching, Educating, and Mentoring)

The department provides T.E.A.M. grade school lessons, middle school lessons, and high school lessons. Each lesson is approximately 30 to 45 minutes in length and deals with various topics such as fire safety, internet safety, bicycle and pedestrian safety, gun safety, homeland security, defensive driving, etc. “T.E.A.M. is a proactive effort to make schools and communities safer, promote responsible citizenship, and encourage positive character traits.”

Personal Safety

From time to time, we offer a self-defense class for women. Contact the Parks and Recreation Department at 616-949-1750.

Don’t walk or jog early in the morning or late at night when the streets are deserted.

When out at night, try to have a friend walk with you.

If you think someone is following you, switch directions or cross the street. If the person continues to follow you, move quickly toward an open store or restaurant or a lighted house. Don’t be afraid to yell for help.

Always lock your car, even if it’s in your own driveway; never leave your motor running.

If you are robbed or assaulted, report the crime to the police. Try to describe the attacker accurately. Your actions can help prevent someone else from becoming a victim.

Prescription Drug Drop Off

The department has a drop box in the lobby of our building for citizens to drop off unwanted prescription medications. The prescriptions are disposed of in a safe manner. If you have questions about the program contact the Public Safety Department at 616-949-7010.